5 things I do on repeat to decrease stress from the election
Election season is here again, and with it comes the inevitable whirlwind of news, opinions, and emotional roller coasters of the comment sections. Whether you're glued to the headlines or trying to escape the constant updates, it’s no surprise that cortisol can soar higher than the disapproval rates. It’s honestly one of the most stressful seasons that I’m not sure I can handle every 4 years.
I personally let the 2020 election impact my mental and physical health so I’ve been prepping for this race very differently. No matter what side you are on, making your health a priority is always a win (I know I’m biased as a dietitian, but… it’s true). Here are the 5 things I am doing on repeat to decrease stress & supporting my health for the 2024 election.
1. Drink Minerals Over Wine
When the political stress hits especially during the debates, it can be tempting to reach for a glass of wine to unwind. But here’s a game-changing tip: Swap that glass for a mineral-rich drink like water with a dash of magnesium or a refreshing electrolyte mix like Cure Hydration. Wine does feel good in the moment (duh), but it can actually leave you feeling more fatigued and anxious the next day due to the stress it causes on the liver. On the other hand, minerals replenish your body, help calm your nervous system, and keep you hydrated. If you’re asking me, minerals are the real MVP of this race.
2. Steak Over Ice Cream
Stress eating is real, and it's easy to reach for comfort food when you're feeling anxious. However, the carb rich foods our brain craves during stress can perpetuate the stress cycle. Reaching for something like a nice steak dinner first can help stabilize your blood sugar and prevent the ups and downs of a carb rich treat. I’m not saying you can’t have ice cream at all! I’m recommending that if you do want it to eat a protein rich dinner first. This also helps support metabolism and weight loss if that is a goal you’re also working on.
3. Sleep Over Scroll
Election news can feel addictive, and scrolling late into the night is an easy trap to fall into. Actually, science tells us now that scrolling is addictive. It gives a quick dopamine hit that keeps us coming back for more and more. Before you know it, you have lost an hour of precious sleep and added more stress to your plate. Lack of sleep makes it harder to process information, increases irritability, and weakens your ability to handle the ups and downs of election season. Instead of using your phone to unwind at night, try reading, journaling or even just talking to your partner instead of scrolling while sitting next to each other.
4. Talk Instead of Text
When stress runs high, it's easy to isolate yourself and rely on quick texts or social media interactions to stay connected. But nothing beats a good, heart-to-heart conversation. Pick up the phone or, better yet, meet up with a friend to talk things out. Human connection lowers cortisol levels (your body’s stress hormone) and helps you process what’s on your mind more effectively than a rapid-fire text exchange ever could. So, instead of staying in the digital world, create space for real, meaningful conversations. I truly believe this is one of the main reasons the election season becomes more and more stressful.
5. New Hairstyle Over Cutting Your Bangs
We’ve all been there—the urge to make a dramatic change when life feels out of control. But before you grab the scissors and go for a spur-of-the-moment bang cut, consider this: Why not experiment with a fresh new hairstyle instead? Try a ponytail! A new clip! Maybe even a brain! Whether it’s a different way to style your hair or a fun accessory, changing things up without the commitment of a major chop can give you that boost of confidence and sense of renewal without the regret. Trust me, I recently tried to cut my own bangs and it did NOT. GO. WELL. If someone on the internet said they recently cut their hair with kitchen scissors it does not mean you should try it too.
I know talking about simple health changes may seem like a waste of time during a very important time in history, but our bodies have to function. Plain and simple. If we don’t take care of ourselves the body will run out. You will feel depleted, you will make poor choices and you won’t be a good version of yourself. No matter the season, we need to make health a priority so we can show up in the best way possible.
